Corey Smoot, the GWAR guitarist known as Flattus Maximus in the wildly costumed metal band, was found dead by his bandmates earlier today as they prepared to cross the border into Canada. The cause of death has not yet been determined.

Smoot, who joined the long-running band in 2002, had the longest tenure in the Maximus role. He became an integral part of the band, co-producing its albums 'Beyond Hell' and 'Lust in Space.' The band has not decided what to do about remaining tour dates, said frontman Dave Brockie (Oderus Urungus) in a statement. "At this point we are just dealing with the loss of our dear friend and brother, one of the most talented guitarists in metal today," he wrote.  

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